First, it’s essential to know that there are many types of moths in Massachusetts.
If you live in Massachusetts and have noticed the presence of moths in your area, you may wonder what types of moths are present in the state.
Moths come in many shapes and sizes, and there are a variety of species living in Massachusetts.
In this blog post, we will discuss some of the most common moth species in the region and how to identify them.
By learning to recognize the different types of moths in Massachusetts, you can better appreciate and understand the beauty and diversity of these fascinating creatures.
1. Achemon Sphinx Moth
The Achemon Sphinx Moth is the first on our list of the common types of moths in Massachusetts.
This moth has a wingspan of about three inches and is characterized by its yellowish-brown to dark brown forewings with dark brown to black hind wings.
The Achemon Sphinx Moth is most commonly found near bodies of water, in deciduous forests, and in other habitats with dense vegetation.
They are typically active during the year’s warm months, from late spring to early fall.
The Achemon Sphinx Moth is an essential species in the region, serving as food for many types of birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians.
In addition, they are an essential pollinator species in many areas of Massachusetts. As a result, it is vital to protect their habitat and prevent any destruction that could lead to their decline.
2. Abbreviated Button Slug Moth
The Abbreviated Button Slug Moth is a species of moth native to Massachusetts. The adult moth is approximately 0.5 inches long and can range in color from light brown to grey.
Its wings have an intricate pattern of white and dark brown or black, with a distinctive pale yellow or orange border at the edges.
This species is second on our list of the types of moths in Massachusetts. It is nocturnal and is active during the warmer months of the year.
It prefers habitats such as forest edges, meadows, and marshes with plenty of vegetation to hide and feed on.
Abbreviated Button Slug Moths feed on a variety of wildflowers and grasses, as well as other vegetation. They are essential pollinators and help to increase biodiversity in their environments.
3. Abbott’s Sphinx Moth
This moth species is most common in the eastern part of the United States but can also be found in the southeastern part of Canada and New England.
Abbott’s Sphinx Moth is a medium-sized moth, typically measuring between 1.25 to 1.75 inches. Its wingspan may reach up to 3 inches.
The upper surface of its wings is usually a rich brown, with pale orange and yellow stripes running through them.
The underside of the wings can range from light to dark brown, with cream-colored spots scattered throughout.
It has a dark head and thorax and is sometimes mistaken for a hummingbird or butterfly due to its coloration.
This moth is most active at night and is often attracted to lights in suburban areas. They avoid open fields and forest edges, preferring small gardens, meadows, and woodlands.
They are typically seen flying around mid-summer, with their peak activity occurring in late July and August.
Abbott’s Sphinx Moth prefers flowers like milkweed, thistles, and wild carrot for their nectar source.
This moth species is on our list of the types of moths in Massachusetts, and it does not bite or sting and poses no harm to humans or pets.
4. Adjutant Wainscot Moth
The Adjutant Wainscot Moth is one of the most common types of moths in Massachusetts.
This species has a wingspan ranging from 1.5 to 2 inches and a tan body color. The wings feature yellowish-brown, dark brown, and grayish-brown patterns.
When the wings are spread out, they have a distinctive scalloped pattern resembling wainscot paneling. These moths fly in gardens and meadows from early summer to late autumn.
Although they can sometimes be mistaken for other species of moths, the Adjutant Wainscot Moth can be identified by its unique patterns and large size.
5. Afflicted Dagger Moth
The Afflicted Dagger Moth is a species of moth found in the state of Massachusetts.
The adult moth has a wingspan that ranges from 1.5-2 inches and can be identified by its grey-brown colored forewings with white markings and two black bars on the hindwings.
It is uncommon but can be found in deciduous woodlands, roadsides, and fields. These moths are active during the day and are attracted to lights at night.
They are types of moths in Massachusetts that feed on nectar from flowers and foliage.
6. Ailanthus Webworm Moth
The Ailanthus Webworm Moth (Atteva aurea) is a moth found in Massachusetts.
The wingspan of the Ailanthus Webworm Moth ranges from 2 to 2.5 centimeters, and the moth has an overall greyish-brown coloration.
The species is common throughout the eastern United States, but it is most often spotted in wooded areas of Massachusetts.
The larvae of this moth feed on the foliage of trees in the genus Ailanthus, hence its name.
The adult Ailanthus Webworm Moth is active during the day and can be easily identified by its significant white markings on its forewings. It is also one of the types of moths in Massachusetts.
While the moth is present throughout the year, its peak activity is from July to August.
The Ailanthus Webworm Moth is a beneficial species, as it helps control the growth of Ailanthus trees, which are considered invasive species in many areas.
7. Ambiguous Moth
The Ambiguous Moth, also known as the Lascoria ambigualis, is a moth native to Massachusetts.
It is a member of the Noctuidae family of moths and is characterized by its variable coloration. The adults have light-brown to dark-brown wings with thin black lines and white spots.
They are one of the types of moths in Massachusetts, and they have a wingspan of up to 32mm.
The Ambiguous Moth is primarily active in summer, typically from June to September. During this time, it can be found in the state’s woodlands, meadows, and wetlands.
The larvae feed on various plants and trees, such as grasses, legumes, and willow. Adult moths can be attracted to bright lights or sweet foods such as sugar, honey, or ripe fruits.
8. American Dagger Moth
The American Dagger Moth is a medium-sized moth native to the eastern half of North America, including Massachusetts. They are often mistaken for their close relative, the Gray Dagger Moth.
The American Dagger Moth has a wingspan of 2.6 to 3.9 inches, and its wings are brownish-gray with two white stripes running across the forewing.
The abdomen is gray and black, and the caterpillars have a reddish-brown head with white and black stripes down their back.
This particular one of the types of moths in Massachusetts is also known to feed on various plants, including oaks and maples.
These moths are usually active at night but can sometimes be seen during the day when the temperature is warm.
The American Dagger Moth is a vital pollinator and plays an essential role in maintaining the health of local ecosystems in Massachusetts.
It is important to note that the American Dagger Moth is not considered a pest species, and its population is generally stable in the state.
9. American Ermine Moth
The American Ermine Moth is a commonly found moth species in Massachusetts. Its wingspan is 1.2 to 1.8 inches, and its body is usually white or cream-colored with dark grey markings on its wings.
This moth is active during the day, flying around and resting on plants and trees. Its diet consists of the leaves of trees like elm, ash, birch, and willow.
The larvae of this species feed on the leaves of these trees, often causing severe damage to their foliage. This species can be found in various habitats, fields, forests, and urban environments.
This moth is an integral part of the food chain, providing sustenance to various birds and mammals.
Identifying an American Ermine Moth is pretty easy. It can be distinguished from other moths by its distinctive white or cream-colored body with grey spots and blackish, transverse bands on its wings.
Additionally, its antennae are feathery, and its legs are covered in long hairs. This species is known to be attracted to light and can often be seen in backyards or parks at night.
They typically fly from late April through August and can be found in gardens, wooded areas, and meadows.
10. American Lappet Moth
The American Lappet Moth is one of the types of moths in Massachusetts. They have dark brown wings that span 2 to 3 inches, and their bodies are light brown or yellowish.
The forewings also feature prominent spots and intricate white and yellow lines near the edges.
Moreso, these moths are primarily active during the day and are quite active in flying and foraging for food.
They feed on the foliage of certain trees and shrubs, including birch, cherry, poplar, willow, and oak.
They tend to lay eggs in the spring and early summer months, typically on the underside of leaves.
11. Arcigera Flower Moth
The Arcigera Flower Moth is found in Massachusetts and the eastern United States. It is a member of the Noctuidae family and is known for its distinctive orange and brown coloration.
The wingspan of the Arcigera Flower Moth ranges from 1 to 2 inches, with an average wingspan of 1.5 inches.
Of the types of moths in Massachusetts, this moth is attracted to flowers, hence its name.
The larvae feed on a variety of flowers, including but not limited to daisies, asters, and sunflowers. The Arcigera Flower Moth typically flies in late spring and early summer at night.
They are commonly seen around lights and artificial lighting sources during this time.
This species is usually found near the ground or in low-lying areas, as they prefer cooler temperatures.
They also prefer moist and shady habitats such as wooded areas, wetlands, and fields.
With its unique coloring and distinctive pattern, the Arcigera Flower Moth is an easily identifiable moth species in Massachusetts.
12. Ash-Tip Borer Moth
The Ash-tip Borer Moth is a type of moth found in Massachusetts. This species is a member of the Noctuidae family and is characterized by its gray-brown wings with a light gray outer fringe.
Its dorsal area has a distinct pattern of zigzag lines. Its forewings are elongated and narrow. This moth is particularly active during the summer and can be found in forested areas.
It is a type of moth in Massachusetts that prefers open woodlands, meadows, and wetlands. The larvae feed on woody plants such as ash, maple, and willow trees.
Identifying the Ash-tip Borer Moth can be challenging due to its resemblance to other moths in Massachusetts.
The best way to identify this species is to look for the unique zigzag pattern along the dorsal area of its wings.
Additionally, its elongated and narrow forewings are a helpful indicator for distinguishing this species from other moths.
13. Bagworm Moth
Next up on this list of the various types of moths in Massachusetts is the Bagworm Moth (Various spp.).
It is easily identified by its unique shape, as the adult moth appears to be carrying a bag or cocoon around its body. The moth is small and brown, with a wingspan of about 1 inch.
It usually feeds on the foliage of trees and shrubs, and its caterpillars are often found spinning webs around the branches of trees. They are common throughout the state, especially in areas with dense foliage.
The Bagworm Moth is an integral part of the ecosystem in Massachusetts, as it helps to keep tree and shrub populations healthy.
The moths provide food for birds and other animals, while their larvae help to reduce the risk of disease and infestations on trees and shrubs.
For gardeners, they can also be beneficial as their caterpillars can help to keep pests at bay.
It is important to identify the Bagworm Moth if you suspect it is on your property, as it can cause damage to trees and shrubs if left unchecked.
14. Banded Tussock Moth
The Banded Tussock Moth is a species of moth that can be found in Massachusetts. It has a wingspan of around 1.5 inches and is typically brownish with yellow bands around the wings.
This moth is quite common and can be seen in meadows, woodlands, and gardens throughout the state.
The larvae of this species are primarily known for the dense fur covering their bodies and the reddish-brown hairs on their heads.
The Banded Tussock Moth can be identified by its distinct black and white patterning on its body.
Its wings are reddish-brown with yellow bands along the edges and small white spots near the center of each wing.
These moths in Massachusetts are active during the daytime, making them easy to spot. They are also attracted to light, making them even more visible.
With careful observation, you should be able to spot this month in Massachusetts.
15. Banded Woollybear Caterpillar Moth
The Banded Woollybear Caterpillar Moth is one of the more recognizable types of moths in Massachusetts. It is easily identifiable by its fuzzy black and orange stripes.
The caterpillars feed on various plants and can grow up to 3 inches long. When fully mature, the caterpillar becomes a pale yellowish-orange moth with a wingspan of 1 1⁄2 inches.
The female moths are more significant than males, and the larvae can be found throughout the summer months.
The Banded Woollybear Caterpillar Moth is an essential pollinator for many plant species in Massachusetts, including various Aster family members.
These moths are active during the day but tend to be most active at night when they are attracted to lights. They can be found in many habitats, including grassy fields and open woodlands.
The moths also help keep insect pests like aphids and whiteflies in check, so protecting these beneficial insects is essential.
16. Barberry Geometer Moth
The Barberry Geometer Moth is a type of moth that can be found in Massachusetts. This species has a wingspan of 1.5 to 2 inches, and its body is yellowish-brown.
The forewings are mottled with black and white, and the hindwings are pale gray. This species prefers areas with dense vegetation, and it is most active at night.
The Barberry Geometer Moth feeds on various types of plants and flowers, and it is often seen resting on leaves during the day.
This species is relatively common in Massachusetts and can be found in gardens, meadows, and woodland habitats.
We are yet to get started on this list of the fantastic types of moths in Massachusetts!
17. Black-Blotched Prominent Moth
The Black-blotched Prominent Moth (Schizura leptinoides) is a moth native to Massachusetts and can be found from spring through summer.
The Black-blotched Prominent Moth is easily identifiable by its two black dots on its wings and its yellow and white striped body.
These moths have a wingspan of up to 3 inches, making them relatively large compared to other moths in the region.
The Black-blotched Prominent Moth typically feeds on the nectar of wildflowers and other blooming plants and lays their eggs on the bark, soil, or plant leaves.
Their larvae are green or brown and feed on foliage. They can also overwinter in their pupal stage, allowing them to survive colder temperatures.
Overall, the Black-blotched Prominent Moth is one of the types of moths in Massachusetts and an important part of the local ecosystem and can often be seen fluttering around in gardens or meadows.
18. Black-Dotted Ruddy Moth
The Black-dotted Ruddy Moth is a small moth with a wingspan of about 12 to 14 mm and is recognizable by its orange-brown color.
Its wings are slightly darker brown and bordered by small black spots. The underside of the wings is usually lighter in color and bears the same black dots.
This species can be found in most areas of Massachusetts during the spring and summer months and can also be seen in other parts of New England.
This moth species are commonly found near various deciduous trees, especially oak and birch trees.
Meanwhile, they feed on the nectar of flowers, leaves, and fruit of the trees they inhabit. The larvae of the Black-dotted Ruddy Moth feed mainly on the foliage of various trees, including oaks and birches.
These moths are active at night, so it’s best to look for them in the evening or early morning hours.
19. Blinded Sphinx Moth
The Blinded Sphinx Moth is a large and impressive moth with a wingspan of 2.5 to 3.25 inches. It is typically gray with a dark gray or brown pattern across the forewings.
Its hindwings are often yellow or orange, with a red band running down the inner margins.
This species can be found in deciduous woods, fields, gardens, and other open habitats in Massachusetts during June and July.
This species of moth is one of the most distinctive-looking moths in the state, but it is also quite elusive.
The Blinded Sphinx Moth is also one of the types of moths in Massachusetts and also a strong flier, and it is rarely seen resting on a plant or tree.
The caterpillars of this species feed on many different species of trees, such as oaks and willows.
They overwinter in cocoons attached to tree bark or leaf litter and emerge as adults in the spring.
20. Bold-Feathered Grass Moth
The Bold-feathered Grass Moth is also one of the most common moths in Massachusetts, especially in the western regions.
This medium-sized moth is brown with a prominent white-ringed spot in the center of the wings.
It has a wingspan of up to an inch and a half and is seen fluttering around meadows and grassy areas.
Moving on, they tend to hide during the day and emerge in the evening, so they’re rarely spotted in the daytime.
The larvae of this species feed on grass and other plants, making them essential pollinators for native vegetation.
This species is particularly fascinating as it can adapt its behavior to either diurnal or nocturnal, depending on its environment.
For example, it may become nocturnal to conserve energy if it’s cold outside. Additionally, some individuals can change their diet from plant to animal matter if their environment becomes dry.
As such, the Bold-feathered Grass Moth is a unique and fascinating species found in Massachusetts.
21. Bristly Cutworm Moth
The Bristly Cutworm Moth is a medium-sized moth found throughout Massachusetts. In addition, It has a wingspan of about 1-1/4 inches.
The wings are reddish-brown to black, with a distinct yellow band across the top. Its caterpillars are distinctive, white, and bristly, with several tufts of black hair.
This moth is active during the day and can be seen fluttering around its host plant, which is usually the dandelion or a similar species.
They feed on the foliage and flowers of their host plant and are considered pests in some areas as they can damage crops.
This species of the types of moth in Massachusetts is not considered to be rare and is quite common throughout the state.
22. Brown Panopoda Moth
The Brown Panopoda Moth is a species of moth found in Massachusetts. It belongs to the Noctuidae, which includes the large majority of moths in the area.
This species is a medium-sized moth, with its wingspan ranging from 1.4 to 2 inches. Its body is predominantly brown, with yellow and black markings that can be seen on its hindwings.
Its antennae are long and curved, and it has two distinctive dark spots near the base of its forewings.
This moth species is usually active during the summer, but its activity can vary depending on the region and time of year.
The Brown Panopoda Moth has a wide range in the northeastern United States and can be found in most parts of Massachusetts.
This is one of the most commonly seen moths in Massachusetts observed around wooded areas, where it feeds on the nectar of flowers.
It is also attracted to light sources at night and can often be spotted on walls and other flat surfaces near homes or buildings.
23. Buck Moth
The Buck Moth is a moth species found in the United States, including Massachusetts.
It is a giant, dark moth, easily recognized by its long white and black antennae. The wings are a deep black with white markings, and the body is orange.
The wingspan of this moth is around 2 inches and can be found from May to August. This month usually prefers to live in open areas with plenty of sunlight and grasses.
The Buck Moth feeds primarily on legumes such as clover and alfalfa, though they will also feed on other plants such as dandelions and wildflowers.
They may be active during the day or at night but tend to be more active at night when the temperature is more relaxed.
They can be attracted to lights and sometimes fly around porch lights or street lights in the evening. Overall, they are also types of moths in Massachusetts!
24. Carmine Snout Moth
The Carmine Snout Moth is a species of moth found in the state of Massachusetts. It belongs to the family Noctuidae, which includes many other moths found in the United States.
This moth species has a distinct carmine red color on its snout, hence its name. Further, it has a wingspan of 2-2.5 inches and can be found throughout much of the state.
The adults feed on nectar from flowers and plants, and the larvae feed on the foliage of trees and shrubs. This moth species is relatively easy to identify due to its distinctive coloring and size.
It also has various characteristics that can be used to distinguish it from other types of moths in Massachusetts.
These characteristics include a bright red snout, long antennae, long wingspan, and white-tipped forewings.
This moth is most active during the day, so it is best to look for them mid-morning or late afternoon when the sun is at its brightest.
25. Carrot Seed Moth
The Carrot Seed Moth, also known as the Garden Webworm, is a moth found in Massachusetts. It has a wingspan of about 1 inch and is generally gray or light tan. The wings are heavily patterned with dark brown, gray, and yellow stripes.
The larvae feed on many garden vegetables, especially carrots, and can be a problem for gardeners.
The Carrot Seed Moth’s life cycle can last 2-4 weeks, depending on the temperature. They lay their eggs on the underside of the leaves and stems of host plants.
When the eggs hatch, the larvae feed on the plant tissue and eventually form a cocoon where they will pupate. The adults emerge after a few weeks and fly around looking for mates.
To control these pests, gardeners should pick off any egg masses they find and use pesticide sprays if necessary.
26. Cattail Caterpillar Moth
The cattail caterpillar moth is a unique moth found in Massachusetts and can be identified by its white to pale gray wings.
The hindwings are colored yellow-orange and are usually marked with a dark cross-shaped pattern. The moth’s body is brown and covered with many tiny white hairs.
This moth is often found on the edges of wetlands and in marshy areas, where it feeds on plants such as cattails, bulrushes, and pondweeds.
The caterpillars of this species are light green or yellow-green and have dark heads. They feed primarily on cattail plants and can be seen in large numbers during summer.
When disturbed, these moths in Massachusett curl up into a tight ball, revealing their distinctive spines. They eventually become pupa before emerging as adult cattail caterpillar moth.
27. Honey Locust moth
While many people have an orange hue, some may be dark gray. Two tiny white dots and dark freckles can be seen on the forewings.
The wings have a dark line that may be used to distinguish between the lighter lower wing and the darker upper wing.
When exposed, the hindwings have a vivid pink color with a border that is nearly the same hue as the forewings’ undersides.
Caterpillars consume both Kentucky coffee trees and the honey locust tree’s leaves. Each year, there can be up to three broods.
28. Celery Leaftier Moth
The Celery Leaftier Moth (Udea rubigalis) is a species of moth that can be found in Massachusetts.
It has a wingspan of up to 3/4 inch, and its wings have yellow-orange to pinkish-brown coloring with dark markings.
The caterpillars of this species feed on leaves of celery, parsley, carrots, and other umbelliferous plants.
They are active from April to October and can be found in urban and rural areas. Compared to other types of moths in Massachusett, their appearance is distinctive, making them easy to identify.
The adult moths are nocturnal and attracted to lights at night, and can be easily disturbed during the day.
29. Eyed Paectes Moth
Next to be discussed on this list of the different types of moths in Massachusetts is the Eyed Paectes, a nocturnal moth worth staying up late to see.
It is drawn to lights, and if one comes into view, the enormous eyespots on its wings will enthrall practically anyone who chances to be around.
The large, brown eyespots are located at the underside of the rounded forewings and are speckled with white, black, and blue.
The eyespots maintain a steady gaze while the wings are widely stretched. The eyes appear almost sad and droopy when the wings are flat and closed.
The sides of the wings have streaks of crimson red or pinkish-orange color, while the borders may be dark purple.
The area around the eyespots is brightened by cream-colored patches that sit close to the base of the wings by the thorax and surround them.
The legs and abdomen are brown, and the antennae feature comb-like teeth. The caterpillar eats poison ivy, like a few other moths in this family.
When discovered, it is best to scan the surrounding vegetation to prevent coming into contact with the poison ivy leaves’ poisonous urushiol oil.
Most people who use the oil experience an adverse reaction that manifests as red, itchy blisters that can take weeks to cure. The chubby, neon green caterpillar has little yellow spots strewn around it.
30. Hummingbird Moth
Types of moths in Massachusetts? The Hummingbird Moth is one, and it resembles a little hummingbird thanks to its swiftly beating wings and furry body.
However, a real hummingbird has a long, narrow beak, one of its distinguishing features. On the other hand, the Hummingbird Moth has a proboscis that can penetrate deeply into flowers.
It flits between plants, sipping the nectar of various blooms and contributing to their pollination. Unlike actual hummingbirds, the moth also flies quietly, which makes a low buzzing sound.
Another sign that a hummingbird moth is not an actual bird is that its wings are mainly translucent with dark borders.
The lower body is brown with a broad yellow band near the end of the abdomen, and the head area is yellow-green.
Even though it is without feathers, this moth appears to have tail feathers. Since they adore flower gardens, hummingbird moths will likely visit various plants in the area.
In addition, you can find them next to forests and in meadows. The Sphinx Moth family includes hummingbird moths and foragers who feed at night. Late spring to early fall is the most active time for adults.
The honeysuckle plant’s leaves and stems are a favorite food source for larvae (vines and shrubs).
If you plant some in your yard, it may encourage the Hummingbird Moth adult to visit you more often. Look for its horned green caterpillar feeding on leaves
31. Cherry Scallop Shell Moth
The Cherry Scallop Shell Moth (Rheumaptera prunivorata) is a moth commonly found in Massachusetts.
This species is also known as the apple scallop shell or wild cherry caterpillar and is one of the most commonly encountered moths in the state. It is found in many habitats, including woodlands, fields, and urban areas.
This species has a wingspan of around 30mm, and its wings are white, with black markings and a distinctive crescent shape near the outer margin.
The larvae of the Cherry Scallop Shell Moth are greenish-yellow to pink in color and feed on various plant species, including apple, cherry, and maple trees.
They are also types of moths in Massachusetts and are usually found on the upper surface of leaves or the stems and twigs of trees.
Adult moths can be seen from late spring to early fall and are often attracted to lights at night.
32. Cinnabar Moth
The Cinnabar Moth, also known as the Ragwort Moth, is a species of moth in the family Arctiidae.
It can be found in various habitats in Massachusetts and the United States, including open grasslands, pastures, and forests.
This species is easily identified by its bright reddish-orange wings with black markings and its grey thorax with a distinctive yellow stripe.
The Cinnabar Moth feeds on common ragwort (Senecio jacobaea), tansy ragwort (Senecio filaginoides), and groundsel (Senecio vulgaris).
The caterpillar stage of this most is also quite distinctive due to its black and yellow stripes.
The larvae typically feed on their host plants at night, while the adults can be seen fluttering around during the day.
This species is an excellent indicator of the health of an environment, as it relies heavily on its host plant for survival.
33. Clover Hayworm Moth
The Clover Hayworm Moth is a common sight in Massachusetts and can easily be identified by its small size and the bright yellow color of its wings.
The moth has a wingspan of approximately two inches and can be found in various habitats, including grassy areas, meadows, and fields.
The moths are active during the daytime but can also be seen flying at night. These moths feed on clover and other plants, and their larvae can cause damage to crops. The caterpillars of this species are green in color with black stripes.
The Clover Hayworm Moth is a part of the Noctuidae family and is one of the most abundant types of moths in Massachusetts.
The species has spread throughout North America and can be found in many other parts of the United States.
This moth is known for its hardiness and is not easily affected by pesticides or other pest control methods.
In addition to feeding on clover, the Clover Hayworm Moth will feed on various other plants, including dandelion and clover.
These moths are essential to the local ecosystem, as they are vital in pollinating local plant species.
34. Clover Looper Moth
The Clover Looper Moth is one of the many types of moths in Massachusetts that can be found.
This species is common throughout the state and is particularly attracted to grassy or open areas, such as fields and meadows. It is a small, slender moth with a wingspan of about 1 inch (2.5 cm).
The forewings are usually a light brownish-gray, while the hindwings are yellow-orange with darker markings. It has distinctive dark markings on its abdomen that help identify it from other moths.
This species is generally active in the spring and summer months and is attracted to light at night.
35. Common Lytrosis Moth
The Common Lytrosis Moth is a species of moth that is found in Massachusetts. This moth species is fairly small and has a wingspan of about 1.25 inches.
The coloration of this species can vary, but it is usually light yellow or brown with black or dark brown markings on the wings and body.
The Common Lytrosis Moth typically flies during the day and is commonly seen in gardens and meadows.
This species feeds on various plants and flowers, including clover and alfalfa. It is not left out of this list of the several types of moths in Massachusetts!
The Common Lytrosis Moth is an essential pollinator for many species of plants, as they can collect and spread pollen between them.
This species also benefits farmers, as they help keep crop-damaging insect populations under control.
With its bright colors, the Common Lytrosis Moth is a beautiful addition to any garden or meadow.
36. Common Spring Moth
The Common Spring Moth is one of the first moths to appear in a new year. It is active from March through May, though moths in the cooler northern states may continue to fly into the summer. Each of the moth’s wings has a substantial black-brown border around it.
A second white patch is located on the inner edge, and a sizable white patch on the leading edge of the wing points downward into the wing.
On the hindwings, a white border appears above a dark one. The appearance is that of a white moth with a dark border with all its wings extended flat and open. It has a dark body.
This little moth, a day-flying insect typically seen in its area, may be mistaken for a butterfly because of its bold colors and pattern.
Caterpillars of these types of moths in Massachusetts feed on black locust and honey locust trees
37. Curve Line Owlet moth
The Curve-lined Owlet moth has tawny brown wings gently crossed by a pale, curving line. Both lines intersect immediately below the inner wing’s midpoint and angle toward the head.
The front labial palps form the “nose “‘s” pointed shape. Both characteristics emphasize this moth’s triangular shape.
The strange-looking caterpillar on our list of the different types of moths in Massachusetts possesses a unique combination of characteristics.
The body’s midsection appears broken, bending at odd angles. In that location, a white mark resembles a saddle.
From the middle front of the body, a colossally long horn or spike-like projection develops upward.
A second, smaller one curls in the back. The caterpillar’s overall shade can range from golden brown to rusty brown to pale olive green.
With only a few prologs remaining where the “saddle” should be to anchor the caterpillar to its host plant, it is typical for both the head and the rear end to be held above the branch, stem, or twig it is standing on.
This species feeds on greenbriers, thorny vines that grow on other plants and belong to the Smilax genus. Whether they grow small or long, greenbrier thorns are always sharp.
Because it blends in so well with seemingly harmless plants, someone stung by it can mistake it for a bee or wasp sting.
Keep an eye out for the adult and larvae in woodlands and the more open places outside of them.
Additionally, they might be in more developed places like backyards and office parks, which unknowingly include greenbriers growing through border hedges and privacy screens
38. Definite Tussock Moth
The shaggy yellow and black caterpillar is an unwanted guest, even though the adult is a magnificent chocolate brown moth.
The slim larva’s vivid colors make it easy to spot, but like many other Tussock caterpillars, these hairs have the potential to irritate flesh when handled.
Even when wearing gloves, the delicate hairs might come off and irritate exposed arms.
For sweeping these types of moths in Massachusetts off of a porch, brooms are helpful. The caterpillar is covered in a protective casing made of these same hairs while it pupates.
Find any cocoons on the walls and carefully remove them, not allowing the hairs to fly into the air and land on your eyes or exposed skin.
Be careful when passing under trees with them because they could fall off. Spend some time identifying the caterpillar, and instruct small children to avoid attempting to pet them.
A black body has long, vivid yellow hair covering it. The head could be brown or yellow.
By the skull, four tufts of tightly bunched hair create pimples. These lumps could be orange or yellow.
By the skull, long, black lashes protrude like antennae. By the back, long brown hairs protrude in an almost tail-like fashion.
The entire caterpillar is covered in tremendous, long white hairs extending in all directions.
Avoid getting too close to the body of these specific types of moths in Massachusetts since these hairs might irritate and cause redness.
The feeding activity does not significantly harm oak trees, but younger trees and bushes may suffer from defoliation by this caterpillar.
39. Imperial Moth
The Imperial Moth is unique among the other types of moths in Massachusetts because of its size and color.
Nevertheless, because the proportions of yellow coloring in the two sexes differ, it is easy to believe that males and females belong to distinct species mistakenly.
Males have greater pink/purple (mauve) patches on their wings, while females have more yellow coloration.
Purple hairs usually cover the legs. A thick bush of yellow hairs surrounds the big black eyes.
Imperial Moths are related to the most giant known North American moths since they are members of the Giant Silkworm Moth family. When ready to pupate, their caterpillar creates a tough, brown chrysalis.
Caterpillars spend much time searching for a secure location since the Imperial Moth spends most of its life pupating.
Their caterpillars are highly spiny and either green or brown. Each “segment” is marked by a white spot with a black ring around it on the creature’s sides.
Pine needles, oak, sweetgum, and maple leaves are all they eat. The Imperial Moth has a relatively brief lifespan once it pupates into an adult with wings.
Adults of these types of moths in Massachusetts don’t eat. Instead, they devote all their time and effort to mating before passing away.
Early spring sees the emergence of the first generation of adults, providing warmer temperatures for a potential second generation to emerge later in the summer.
Adult Imperial Moth populations are dwindling because of their intense attraction to lights. In the light, they become too conspicuous to predators like birds and are occasionally consumed before having a chance to breed
Conclusion
Moths are a fascinating species of insect that are often seen fluttering around in the summertime.
If you live in Massachusetts, you may wonder what types of moths can be found in the area.
The blog post above provides an overview of the most common types of moths in Massachusetts and will offer some tips on identifying them.
Various moth species are found in the region, from the iconic Luna Moth to the famous Polyphemus Moth.
So read the article to learn more about the different types of moths in Massachusetts.
